Blanca Morales listens to the speakers at a rally in East Chicago, Ind., April 1.

Emotions flare up at the mention of immigration. People
feel strongly about the issue on all sides. People express their opinion on Web
sites, in blogs, at rallies and in phone calls to their legislators. Like other
bishops, I have received many e-mails, calls and letters mostly voicing anger
about my involvement with the issue. Certainly, attitudes toward immigration
guide the decision of some voters, especially in my state of Arizona.

As people of faith it is critical that we understand the
complexities of immigration. As people
of faith it is critical that we have opportunities to discuss the issue so that
we can better understand the Church’s concern and involvement in this issue. As people of
faith we need to share our attitudes and feelings and—as hard as it is
sometimes—we need to listen.